Alabama goes teal to raise awareness of sexual violence
According to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, every 98 seconds, another American is sexually assaulted. 1 in 6 American women and 1 in 33 American men have been the victim of an attempted or completed rape. What’s worse is approximately two out of three sexual assaults are not even reported to police. Sexual violence is a devastating national and statewide problem that impacts the lives of many women, men, and children each year. In Alabama, 5.4 rapes are reported daily. Which is why the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is partnering with the Alabama Coalition Against Rape (ACAR) to unveil “Alabama Goes Teal.” In conjunction with the national Sexual Assault Awareness Month, “Alabama Goes Teal,” will endeavor to increase statewide awareness about sexual violence and to engage the general public regarding prevention options and victim services. On April 13, employees of ADPH and other Alabamians are invited to wear teal in observance of “Alabama Goes Teal.” “The observance is a great way to raise awareness, provide resources for help, and educate the community,” Kimberly Love, executive director of ACAR, said. “’Alabama Goes Teal” will be a reminder to victim survivors that they are not alone and a clarion call to the community that we must eradicate sexual violence in Alabama.” Help is available for victims of sexual violence. In addition to contacting a law enforcement agency and seeking help at a hospital, victims can contact one of the rape crisis centers in their area or call 1-800-656-4673 (HOPE) to be connected to the nearest center.
